Early Life And Playing Career

Steve Cooper: Former Wrexham Player and Football Manager

Early Life and Playing Career

Steve Cooper, born on 10th December 1979, is a Welsh professional football manager and former player. His playing career spanned from 1998 to 2009 as a defender for various Welsh clubs, including Wrexham, Rhyl, and Bangor City.

Coaching Career

Cooper began his coaching journey at his former club, Wrexham, in 2009 as a youth coach. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the club's manager in 2011. Under his leadership, Wrexham won the FA Trophy in 2013 and reached the FA Cup fifth round in 2015.

In 2015, Cooper joined the Football Association of Wales (FAW) as a youth coach and later as the technical director. He played a significant role in developing young Welsh talent and oversaw the success of the Wales national under-17 team that reached the final of the 2017 UEFA European Under-17 Championship.

Appointment as Nottingham Forest Manager

In 2018, Cooper was appointed as manager of Championship club Nottingham Forest. He guided the team to the playoffs in his first season in charge, but they lost to Derby County in the semi-finals. In the 2021-22 season, he led Forest to a stunning victory in the Championship playoffs, securing automatic promotion to the Premier League.

Leicester City Contender

Following Leicester City's decision to part ways with Brendan Rodgers in February 2023, Cooper emerged as a leading contender to become the club's new manager. With his proven track record of success and his ability to develop young players, Cooper is considered a strong candidate for the role.